How to Stop a Dog from Digging Under the Fence Tips and Tricks

If you own a dog, then you know that they love to dig – it’s just part of their nature. However, if your furry friend is digging under the fence, it can be a big problem. Not only does it pose a safety hazard for your dog, but it can also lead to damage of your property or even escape. In this article, we’ll go over some effective tips and tricks on how to stop a dog from digging under the fence.

Understanding Why Dogs Dig

Before we dive into the solutions, it’s important to understand why dogs dig in the first place. There are several reasons why they do this, including:

• Boredom
• Anxiety or stress
• Seeking shelter or comfort
• Hunting prey
• Chasing after something

Once you understand why your dog is digging, it will be easier to address the behavior.

1. Increase Exercise and Playtime

One of the main reasons why dogs dig is boredom. They have a lot of energy to burn and if they don’t have an outlet for it, they’ll find other ways to entertain themselves, such as digging. To prevent this, make sure your dog is getting enough exercise and playtime. Take them on walks, play fetch, or engage them in other fun activities that will tire them out.

2. Provide a Designated Digging Area

Sometimes, no matter how much exercise and playtime your dog gets, they still want to dig. In this case, it’s a good idea to provide them with a designated digging area. This could be a sandbox or an area in your yard where you don’t mind them digging. Encourage them to dig there and praise them for doing so.

3. Block Off the Area

If your dog is particularly fixated on digging under a specific area of the fence, you can block it off using chicken wire or another type of fencing material. Dig a small trench around the fence and bury the wire, making sure to secure it to the fence. This will make it more difficult for your dog to dig under.

4. Use Deterrents

There are several types of deterrence products you can use to discourage your dog from digging under the fence. These include:

• Bitter apple spray: This is a non-toxic spray that you can apply to the areas where your dog likes to dig. It has a bitter taste that dogs don’t like, so they’ll be less likely to dig there.
• Motion-activated sprinklers: These sprinklers will turn on when your dog gets too close, deterring them from approaching the fence.
• Sonic devices: These emit high-pitched sounds that dogs don’t like, making them less likely to approach the fence.

5. Create Barriers

Another effective way to stop your dog from digging under the fence is to create barriers that will prevent them from getting close to it. Some options include:

• Planting bushes or shrubs along the fence line: This will create a physical barrier that your dog can’t easily get through.
• Laying down rocks or gravel: Dogs don’t like the feel of rocks or gravel on their paws, so they’ll be less likely to approach the fence.
• Installing a concrete footer: This is a more permanent solution that involves pouring concrete along the base of the fence, making it impossible for your dog to dig under.

FAQ

Q: Why does my dog keep digging under the fence even though I’ve tried everything?

A: Sometimes, certain dogs are just more prone to digging than others. In this case, you may need to try a combination of methods and be persistent in your efforts.

Q: Can I use an electric fence to keep my dog from digging under the fence?

A: While electric fences can be effective in preventing dogs from escaping, they aren’t recommended for use as a way to stop them from digging. This is because dogs can still dig underneath the fence and get shocked if the wire isn’t buried deep enough.

Q: What should I do if my dog manages to dig under the fence and escape?

A: First, make sure your dog is safe and not in danger. Then, try to locate them and bring them back home. If your dog tends to escape frequently, it may be a good idea to invest in a GPS tracker or other type of tracking device.

Q: How long does it take to train a dog to stop digging under the fence?

A: It really depends on the dog and how persistent you are in your training efforts. Some dogs may learn quickly, while others may take longer. Just be patient and consistent in your approach.

Q: Can I hire a professional to help me stop my dog from digging under the fence?

A: Yes, there are many dog trainers and behaviorists who specialize in helping petowners address issues like digging. They can work with you to develop a personalized training plan that addresses your dog’s specific needs and behaviors.

Conclusion

While dogs may love to dig, it’s important to prevent them from digging under the fence for their safety and the safety of others. By understanding why your dog is digging and using some of the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can effectively stop them from doing so. Remember to be patient and consistent in your approach and don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help if needed.